The bristles of a toothbrush do not reach between your teeth. The only way to clean between your teeth is with floss (or another instrument that reaches between the teeth). When the area between the teeth is not cleaned, a plaque will start to form. The plaque contains bacteria that will eat away at the teeth and get in the gums. This will eventually cause cavities between the teeth and/or inflammation of the gums. When the gums are inflamed, the bone around the teeth is also affected, and may begin to weaken. This process is one form of gum disease or periodontal disease.

It really depends on the way they are used. If a regular toothbrush is used appropriately, it can do just as good of a job as an electric toothbrush. At your next dental appointment, ask your dentist or hygienist which brushing technique is best for you.

Digital x-rays do not require film to be used. A sensor is placed in the patient’s mouth instead of film, which has a wire that goes directly to the computer. This way, the x-ray image can be seen immediately, and does not require developing and processing (which takes more time and uses chemicals). With a digital x-ray, the dentist knows immediately if the picture taken was good enough or if it needs to be retaken. The picture can be enlarged to allow a patient to easily see it on a computer monitor. Digital x-rays are also beneficial because the patient has reduced exposure to radiation- as opposed to using film.